DE102011106335A1 - Device for electrically charging electric vehicle at loading station, has coding spacer that is arranged between coding element and coding value detection unit at vehicle terminal for connecting charging cable at electric vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a vehicle terminal (FV) for connecting the charging cable (LK) at electric vehicle (EF). A charging station terminal device (LV) is used for connecting charging cable at charging station (LS). The vehicle terminal and charging station terminal device are connected by a charging line for transferring charge current from charging station to vehicle. The vehicle terminal is equipped with a detection unit for detecting coding value of a coding element (CR). A coding spacer is arranged between the coding element and coding value detection unit. An independent claim is included for a method for electrically charging electric vehicle at loading station.

Description

The invention relates to a device and a method for electrically charging an electric vehicle, in particular a road vehicle for the transport of persons and / or goods or a work vehicle with hybrid or electric drive, to a charging station.

Such devices, which are essentially formed by a charging cable, are known. These devices have a vehicle connection device for connecting the device to the electric vehicle, a charging station connection device for connecting the device to the charging station and a charging line (consisting of at least one cable) between the vehicle connection device and the charging station connection device for transmitting a charging current from the charging station to the vehicle.

Such a device is for example off EP 0 622 265 B1 known. The universal charging adapter for an electric vehicle described therein has a battery charger and a power line adapter for connecting an electrical supply output. The adapter comprises a power line and a connection device for the electrical connection of the power line to a specific electrical socket with known electrical properties. The adapter has a specially designed connector for each type of socket in different countries. The battery charger is designed to control the charging current as a function of the load capacity. To this end, an electrical data storage device for storing data representing the electrical properties of the socket, a logic device for reading the electrical data from the data storage device and for generating an identification signal representing the electrical characteristics, as well as a transmission device connected to the connection device for transmitting provided the identification signal to the battery charger. The battery charger includes an identification logic switch to provide information for determining the rate at which the charger draws power.

Furthermore, in order to take account of the current carrying capacity of a charging cable, is in IEC 62196-2 , Draft dated 10.12.2009, provided to provide a voltage divider, which is formed by a vehicle in the plug to ground resistor R _C , a 330 Ω resistor in the vehicle and a connecting them with "Proximity" designated test line. Via a positive voltage applied to the 330 Ω resistor, the resistance R _C in the electric vehicle is detected by means of a voltage measurement at the voltage divider. Depending on the current carrying capacity of the charging cable, a predetermined resistance R _{C is} used.

The problem underlying the invention is that it is not possible with the known devices to recognize the current-carrying capacity of the charging infrastructure or the rated current of the connection device used at a charging station and to take into account for the control of the charging current. EP 0 622 265 B1 this merely indicates that data representing the electrical properties of the socket is stored in an electrical data storage device, not how these data are associated with a particular utility infrastructure. Further, there is the problem that known travel adapters used to meet different connection standards in different countries when connecting electrical appliances normally only have one degree of protection with little protection DIN 40 050 satisfy (for example IP20 according to DIN 40 050 ).

The known measures for limiting the current when charging the battery of an electric vehicle are indeed suitable, the current carrying capacity of the charging cable (Draft of IEC 62196-2 ) or the current carrying capacity of different charging stations and the charging infrastructure to which they belong ( EP 0 622 265 31 ) capture. However, no solution is given for the problem that the known systems are not suitable for automatically detecting and, if necessary, adjusting the maximum charge current if the electric vehicle is to be charged at a charging station of a particular charging infrastructure with a current that determines the current-carrying capacity of this charging infrastructure does not exceed.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to find means for electrically charging an electric vehicle (a battery in the electric vehicle) at a charging station, with which a detection of the current carrying capacity of the charging infrastructure at charging stations in different countries, in which the charging infrastructure with a loading allows different rated currents, without additional measures for detecting and setting a maximum charging current are required. In particular, drivers should be able to load an electric vehicle in cross-border traffic country-specific, without having to take special measures to detect and adjust the charging current. The device used for charging the electric vehicle should be as simple as possible to implement circuitry. Furthermore, the means for charging the electric vehicle and a degree of protection according to DIN 40 050 with increased protection, for example> IP44.

This problem is solved by the apparatus and the method for electrically charging an electric vehicle, in particular a road vehicle for the transport of persons and / or goods or a work vehicle with hybrid or electric drive, to a charging station according to the present invention.

• (a) eine Fahrzeug-Anschlussvorrichtung zum Anschluss der Vorrichtung an das Elektrofahrzeug,
• (b) eine Ladestation-Anschlussvorrichtung zum Anschluss der Vorrichtung an die Ladestation,
• (c) eine Ladeleitung zwischen der Fahrzeug-Anschlussvorrichtung und der Ladestation-Anschlussvorrichtung, wobei die Ladeleitung zur Übertragung eines Ladestromes von der Ladestation zum Fahrzeug dient,
• (d) mindestens ein in der Ladestation-Anschlussvorrichtung geschaltetes Kodierelement,
• (e) Mittel zum Erfassen eines Kodierwertes des Kodierelements und
• (f) eine Kodierleitung zwischen dem mindestens einen Kodierelement und dem Mittel zum Erfassen des Kodierwertes.

The device according to the invention comprises:

• (a) a vehicle connection device for connecting the device to the electric vehicle,
• (b) a charging station connecting device for connecting the device to the charging station,
• (c) a charging line between the vehicle terminal device and the charging station connecting device, wherein the charging cable is used to transmit a charging current from the charging station to the vehicle,
• (d) at least one coding element connected in the charging station connecting device,
• (e) means for detecting a coding value of the coding element and
• (f) a coding line between the at least one coding element and the means for detecting the coding value.

• (a) Verbinden der die Fahrzeug-Anschlussvorrichtung und die Ladestation-Anschlussvorrichtung aufweisenden Ladeleitung über die Fahrzeug-Anschlussvorrichtung mit dem Fahrzeug,
• (b) Auswählen der länderspezifischen Konfiguration der Ladestation-Anschlussvorrichtung und
• (c) Verbinden der Ladestation-Anschlussvorrichtung in der ausgewählten länderspezifischen Konfiguration mit der Ladestation.

The method according to the invention comprises the following method steps:

• (a) connecting the charging line having the vehicle connecting device and the charging station connecting device via the vehicle connecting device to the vehicle,
• (b) selecting the country-specific configuration of the charging station connecting device and
• (c) connecting the charging station connector in the selected country specific configuration to the charging station.

• (d) Ermitteln der ausgewählten länderspezifischen Konfiguration der Ladestation-Anschlussvorrichtung durch Messen des zur länderspezifischen Konfiguration der Ladestation-Anschlussvorrichtung zugeordneten Kodierwertes des in der Ladestation-Anschlussvorrichtung geschalteten Kodierelements,
• (e) Ermitteln einer Strombelastbarkeit der Ladestation durch Zuordnen des gemessenen Kodierwertes zu der Strombelastbarkeit und
• (f) Einstellen des maximalen Ladestromes aufgrund der ermittelten Strombelastbarkeit der Ladestation.

The maximum charging current is then determined and set by means of the following further method steps:

• (d) determining the selected country-specific configuration of the charging station connecting device by measuring the code value of the coding element connected in the charging station connecting device for the country-specific configuration of the charging station connecting device,
• (E) determining a current carrying capacity of the charging station by assigning the measured Kodierwertes to the current carrying capacity and
• (F) Setting the maximum charging current due to the determined current capacity of the charging station.

The charging station connecting device may in particular be a charging station connector and very particularly preferably a charging station connector. In a corresponding manner, the vehicle connection device may in particular be a vehicle connector and very particularly preferably a vehicle connector.

By integrating a coding element in the charging station connecting device, it is possible to automatically determine the characteristic properties of the charging infrastructure (in particular current-carrying capacity or nominal current). Because the charging infrastructure is associated with different spatial configurations of the plug and the sockets that are used in different countries. In the power grids different standards for the connector design apply in different countries. Therefore, different connectors are required for charging. By using a specific coding element with a coding value uniquely assigned to the respective country-specific configuration of the connector type in each connector type, the characteristic properties of the respective power network can be determined and, for example, the maximum charging current can be set. Thus, the current carrying capacity or the nominal current of the charging current infrastructure can be determined via the detection of the coding value of the coding element and this information can be transmitted in a suitable manner to a controller for the charging current. By selecting the appropriate type of connector, which can be used alone at a particular charging station, the current rating or the rated current is determined at the selected charging station. An individualizing signal which is available for this purpose is suitable for being forwarded to a controller and further processed in the controller in such a way that, during charging, an amperage which is acceptable by the charging infrastructure is not exceeded.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one coding element is a coding resistor, wherein the coding value is the resistance value of the coding resistor. The coding resistor is very particularly preferably an ohmic resistor and the coding value is the ohmic resistance value, wherein the means for detecting the coding value in this case comprises an ohmic measuring resistor connected against a measuring DC voltage. Alternatively, the coding element may also be an RC element with a country-specific selected impedance.

In a very simple embodiment of the invention, the coding resistor in the charging station connecting device is connected to ground. The means for detecting the resistance value of the resistor can be realized in particular by a voltage measuring device, a DC voltage measuring device in the case of an ohmic Kodierwiderstandes and an AC voltage measuring device in the case of an RC element as Kodierwiderstand, for example by a Voltage divider from the. Encoding resistor and a further measuring resistor is formed, which is acted upon by an electrical voltage, a DC voltage in the case of an ohmic coding resistor or an AC voltage in the case of the RC element, wherein between the coding and the measuring resistor, a voltage to ground is measured. The resistance of the coding resistor can be determined via the measured voltage. In order to be able to arrange the coding resistor in the charging station connecting device on the one hand and the measuring resistor and the voltage measuring device at a location spaced apart therefrom, a coding line is additionally connected between the coding resistor and the measuring resistor, which allows an arbitrary distance between the two types. The coding line can be accommodated together with the power supply lines in a common cable.

If the ohmic coding resistor is R, the ohmic measuring resistor is R, the electrical voltage applied to the voltage divider is U _A and that in. Voltage divider measured voltage with U _B , the following relationship between the mentioned sizes results:

Thus, knowing the fixed values R and U _A and the measured quantity U _B, the resistance value R _{K of} the coding resistor can be calculated, so that the current carrying capacity of the charging infrastructure is indirectly determined by the unambiguous assignment of the coding resistor to the current carrying capacity.

Basically, different charging modes are possible. For electric vehicles are the charging modes 1 to 4 known whose specifications are in IEC 61851-1 are fixed. In the charging mode 2 The electric vehicle is connected to the single- or three-phase AC grid using standardized and country-specific configured sockets and using mains and earth conductors together with a control and guidance function (pilot function) between the electric vehicle and the plug or control unit in the cable. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, an electronic control device for controlling and monitoring the charger and setting the maximum current according to IEC 61851 and IEC 62196 for the charging mode 2 be provided.

This control unit can be integrated in the charging line. In this embodiment, the means for detecting the coding value of the coding element, for example the measuring resistor and the voltage measuring device, may be located in the electronic control unit, since a DC voltage required for the voltage measurement is typically available in such a control device. Although the two functions can alternatively be accommodated in the charging station connecting device. However, it is a simpler embodiment to provide a separate control unit (charging mode 2) integrated into the charging line, which is also referred to as the In Cable Control Box (ICCB).

Thus, the device according to the invention may further comprise an electronic circuit for generating a control signal for driving an electronic circuit for control. the charging current, which is housed in the ICCB. This can accordingly serve by means of the control signal in particular to control the charger in the vehicle to regulate the charging current. Said electronic control circuit may be, for example, an electronic circuit, as in EP 0 622 265 B1 for the local adapter is described. Ie. This electronic circuit includes, for example, an electrical data storage device for storing data representing the current-carrying capacity of the charging station, a logic device for reading the electrical data from the data storage device and generating an identification signal representing the current-carrying capacity, and a transmission device connected to the vehicle connecting device for transmitting the identification signal to the battery charger in the electric vehicle.

If the electronic circuit for generating the control signal directed to the battery charger is not integrated in the ICCB, which in turn may be integrated in the charging cable, this electronic circuit can in principle also be integrated in the charging station connecting device. In this case, the coding line does not need to bridge a greater distance between the coding element and the means for detecting the coding value of the coding element and optionally to be integrated into the charging line. Rather, in this case, the coding line bridges only a very small distance within the charging station connection device between the coding element arranged there and the detection device for the coding value arranged there.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the device according to the invention further comprises adjusting means for manually setting a maximum charging current to a value I _man . So that the charging current I is limited _to in addition to I manually _loaded. If this value is below that due to the current carrying capacity of the charging infrastructure given nominal current I _nenn , the charging current is set to the manually set value I _man , otherwise it is automatically limited to the rated current I _nenn , ie I _charge = min (I _man , I _nenn ). The adjusting means may be realized by an electronic circuit. For manual actuation, an electronic adjusting means may be provided, which is designed, for example, in the form of a slide control. This actuating means may be located, for example, on the ICCB which is integrated in the charging line. Alternatively, the electronic circuit and the actuating means required for this purpose may also be located at the charging station connecting device.

For the above-described invention, several implementation variants are possible:
In a first implementation variant, the charging station connecting device has a charging station-side connector receptacle and a detachable connectable to the connector receptacle adapter in a country-specific configuration, wherein the coding element is connected in the removable connector with a country-specific configuration customizing coding value. Thus, for any type of interchangeable connector type of a particular spatial configuration designed in accordance with a country-specific standard, there is clearly a coding element having an individually predetermined coding value, preferably a coding resistor having a predetermined resistance value, the coding values for alternating connectors of different types differing respectively adopt a standardized value.

With this implementation variant can be used for connecting the electric vehicle to a charging station in a particular country with a given connection type a matching plug-in connector. For this purpose, a user always carries with him a set of interchangeable connectors for the visited travel countries in order to use them in the respective country. By having a suitable interchangeable connector having a coding value with an encoding value associated therewith, the means for detecting the coding value, for example voltage measurement, automatically determines which type of connector the charger belongs to by measuring the coding value of the coding element in the alternate connector, and thus also automatically, which current carrying capacity applies to the charging infrastructure, which belongs to the charging station. Therefore, when driving through different countries, the driver only has to carry the appropriate adapter plugs with him in order to automatically adjust the charging conditions at a charging station with the appropriate adapter plug. The charging current can then be set based on the determination of the current-carrying capacity in the respective country, for example by the charger of the battery of the electric vehicle, so that it remains below a limit given by the current-carrying capacity.

The alternating connector may be, for example, an AC plug. The connector receptacle may also be a plug. In this case, the alternate connector has sockets for receiving the connector receptacle. Typically, the alternate connector has four pins, three of which are used for power transmission (voltage phase, neutral, and ground / ground) and one for the encoder. The connector receptacle is in such a case also four-pole to switch said lines. in the alternate connector, the coding element is preferably connected between the ground / ground contact and the contact for the coding line.

After selecting a country-specific adapter, the power conductors are contacted with the country-specific power contacts at the charging station, the protective conductor with the country-specific protective contact at the charging station and the coding line with the coding of the connector receptacle.

By detecting the country-specific coding of the adapter plug and thus the current carrying capacity of the charging infrastructure, the charging current can be interrupted by means of the control for the charging current, if this exceeds the maximum value of the current predetermined by the current carrying capacity of the charging infrastructure.

In a second implementation variant, the charging station connecting device has a country-specific configurable switching connector in which, depending on the country-specific selected configuration, at least two coding elements each having a coding value customizing the country-specific configuration are connected. The switchover connector is designed such that the different spatial configurations of the connector for different connection types of a charging station can be realized by its manual manipulation. For example, pins of the changeover connector can be selectively extended or retracted as needed to realize the congruent for connection to the charging station spatial configuration. With the mechanical rearrangement of the pins, moreover, a specific coding element with a given coding value is selectively activated in each case, so that a coding element with a given coding value is clearly assigned to a specific spatial configuration which is designed in accordance with a country-specific standard, preferably a coding resistor one given resistance value, wherein the coding values or resistance values for alternating connectors of different types differ and each assume a standardized value.

The device according to the invention is designed, for example, for a charge-side charging voltage of 230 V AC. All charging current conducting parts are designed, for example, for a maximum charging current of 16 A AC.

The alternating connector with the connector receptacle of the first implementation variant can be sealed in a preferred embodiment in the inserted state against ingress of moisture and foreign matter. To increase the degree of protection DIN 40 050 Starting from, for example, IP20, the seal is provided. This seal may be, for example, a rubber or silicone seal, so that in the mated state no moisture and no foreign body between the AC connector and the connector receptacle and thus can penetrate into the housing. The seal may be attached either to the alternate connector or to the connector receptacle. An attachment of the seal to the connector receptacle is preferred.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the interchangeable connector and the connector receptacle of the first implementation variant on mechanical locking means, which hold them together in the inserted state. With this further technical measure, an even higher degree of protection can be achieved because the seal is safely maintained. In particular, it is possible to prevent penetration of moisture, dirt and small foreign bodies, in particular under the action of a jet of water. This makes it possible to use the charging cable outdoors, so that a version with degree of protection> IP44 can be achieved.

Preferably, the vehicle connector, the charging line, possibly the electronic control unit for controlling and monitoring the charger in the vehicle and the AC plug connector are fixed and thus inseparable.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the switchover connector of the second implementation variant has a mechanical switchover module for the country-specific configuration of its contact pins and for connecting in each case an associated coding element with an individualizing coding value to each country-specific configuration of the contact pins. Therefore, in each case an associated coding element with an individualizing coding value can be switched by the switching module for each country-specific configuration of the contact pins. By switching the Umschaltsteckverbinders in a different spatial configuration corresponding to a particular type of connection of a country, thus additionally associated with this country coding is activated, so that the means for detecting the Kodierwertes measure the Kodierwert and thus indirectly detect the current carrying capacity of the charging station.

The mechanical switching module may have, for example, protected against penetrating moisture and foreign body and manually operable switch, with which the pins from the Umschaltsteckverbinder extendable and retractable to form the desired spatial configuration. A contact pin is extended in this case by manual pressing on the corresponding switching button and preferably locked in this position. The renewed retraction can for example be done by unlocking the contact pin and retraction by means of an elastic element, such as a spring.

Preferably, the vehicle connector, the charging line, possibly the electronic control unit for controlling and monitoring the charger in the vehicle and the Umschaltsteckverbinder are fixed and thus inseparable.

The switching buttons are preferably mounted on the switching connector substantially perpendicular to a surface which extends parallel to the surface of the contact pins. The arms of the toggle switch are protected against ingress of moisture. For this purpose, the switch-over with corrugated hoses or bellows can be protected by the corrugated tubes are slipped over the buttons. The ends of the corrugated hoses are waterproof connected to the switch buttons. For this purpose, one end of each corrugated hose are connected to the respective switchover switch and the other end to the housing of the changeover connector.

The arms of the switch and the corrugated tubes can be encapsulated in a further embodiment of the invention by means of a cover. In order to operate the toggle switch in this case, additional laterally mounted and displaceable buttons can be provided, which are guided in guide slots. Although this variant has the disadvantage that the moisture and dirt or foreign bodies can penetrate through the guide slots under the cover. Although the waterproofness of the housing of the changeover connector through the Corrugated hoses are guaranteed on the toggle buttons, moisture and dirt could collect under the cover and cause problems. The extent of this additional problem can be reduced by the use of rubber or silicone gaskets located in the area of the guide slots so that the moisture, dirt and / or foreign bodies can penetrate only to a limited extent or not at all under the cover. Otherwise, however, this embodiment is more elegant and allows a more attractive design than the embodiment without cover.

Furthermore, seals may also be provided in the region of the contact pins of the changeover connector in order to prevent moisture, dirt and / or foreign bodies from penetrating to the contact pins, at least when they are connected to the charging station. For this purpose, seals, for example rubber or silicone gaskets, can be provided in the connection plane from which the contact pins protrude.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the contact pins of the changeover connector additionally have non-conductive tips. This avoids that in case of unintended contact with those pins that are not connected to the charging station, no electric current flows. Although it is also preferred that the contact pins, which are not used for electrical contacting according to a specific country-specific spatial configuration, are not connected to the voltage phase, neutral or protective conductor. However, the non-conductive design of the contact pin tips is an additional improvement to increase the safety of the changeover connector.

With the above-mentioned further technical measures, an even higher degree of protection can be achieved for the changeover plug connector since moisture penetration is largely prevented and no interference occurs when it comes into contact with the contact pins that are not required. In particular, it is possible to prevent penetration of moisture, dirt and small foreign bodies, in particular under the action of a jet of water. This makes it possible to use the charging cable outdoors, so that a version with degree of protection> IP44 can be achieved.

The invention described hereinbelow will be explained in more detail with reference to figures shown by way of example.

1 shows schematic representations of a device according to the invention in the first implementation variant with an AC plug and a plug receptacle, in a perspective view (a), in a side view (b), with the electrical circuitry in the AC plug and in the plug receptacle (c);

2 shows schematic representations of a device according to the invention in the second implementation variant with a changeover plug, in a perspective view (a), with the electrical circuitry in the changeover (b);

3 shows schematic representations of a replaceable plug and a plug receptacle with means for increasing the degree of protection, in a side view (a), in a perspective view (b);

4 shows schematic representations of a changeover plug with means for increasing the degree of protection, in a side view (a), in a front view (b), in a perspective view (c), in a side view, operated (d);

5 shows a schematic representation of a changeover plug with shift buttons in a perspective view.

In the figures, like reference numerals designate elements having the same function.

In the 1 (a) in a first embodiment is a charging cable, comprising a vehicle connection device FV for connection to an electric vehicle EF (not shown), a charging station connecting device LV for connection to a charging station LS (not shown) and a Charging cable / charging cable (LL). Furthermore, a control unit BC is provided for controlling and monitoring the charger in the vehicle EF, which is integrated in the charging line LL. This control unit BC has a Stellmitel SM, with which a maximum charging current can be set manually.

The vehicle connection device FV is a connector that is adapted for connection to the existing electric vehicle EF. The charging station connecting device LV is likewise a plug connector which is adapted for connection to the charging station LS. In the present case, it is a combination of a plug receptacle SA and a removable plug WV, which are releasably connectable to each other.

In 1 (b) is the charging station connecting device LV of this embodiment, shown in detail: The connector receptacle SA is connected to the charging line LL and has contact pins SK, which are adapted to corresponding sockets WB of the interchangeable connector WV. The AC plug WV also has contact pins KS, the can be plugged into the appropriate sockets of the charging station LS (not shown).

In the present case, four contacts are closed between the plug receptacle SA and the alternating plug WV when these two devices are electrically connected to each other: two power lines L1, N, a grounding PE and a coding line CL. These lines are routed via the charging cable LL to the control unit BC. The contacts KS of the adapter plug WV are country-specific configured, d. H. according to a country-specific standard, wherein the contact pins are arranged spatially different. Of course, a corresponding country-specific configuration is also present in the charging station LS, so that the contact pins KS can be plugged into corresponding sockets of the charging station LS (not shown). If a user wants to charge his electric vehicle EF in a particular country with a specific country configuration of the contact sockets on the charging station LS, he must use the matching adapter plug WV with the corresponding country-specific configuration of the contact pins KS by connecting it to the connector receptacle SA and the AC plug WV then connects to the charging station LS. Since the plug and socket configuration between the plug receptacle SA and the AC plug WV are always the same, different AC plugs WV can be used, each with the charging station LS matching country-specific configuration, without having to replace the plug receptacle SA.

In 1 (b) It is further shown that in the AC connector WV a coding resistor CR is connected between the contact socket for the coding line CL and the protective contact socket for the PE contact PE. This coding resistor CR is an integrated part of the adapter plug WV. The resistance value R _{1 of} this coding resistor CR is set to be different from the resistance values R of coding resistances CR used in changing plugs WV whose country-specific configuration differs from the present one. Therefore, the resistance value R _{1 of} the coding resistor CR codes for the country-specific configuration of the alternating plug WV.

A suitable for determining the country-specific configuration of the adapter plug WV electrical circuit is in 1 (c) In the control unit BC, which is integrated in the charging line LL, a means SP for detecting the resistance value R _{1 of} the coding resistor CR is accommodated. This means SP comprises a further resistor, the measuring resistor MR, which is acted upon by a DC voltage U _A , for example 12 V. This voltage is typically available in the electronic circuit for controlling the charger for the battery of the electric vehicle EF (not shown). The measuring resistance MR with the resistance R and the coding resistance CR with the coding resistance R ₁ constitute a voltage divider, so that by measuring the voltage U _B at point B of the resistance value R _{1 of} the coding resistor CR determined. can be calculated according to the following formula:

By determining this value, the country-specific configuration of the interchangeable connector WV is indirectly and unambiguously determined so that the configuration of the charging station LS and consequently also the current-carrying capacity of the charging infrastructure of the charging station LS are determined. The determined voltage value U _B at point B is passed to an electronic circuit, which generates therefrom a signal, for example a bipolar voltage signal with a specific duty cycle, which influences the charging current control of the charger in the electric vehicle EF, so that a maximum rated current during charging is not exceeded. However, the thus limited charging current I _{load can} be limited by the setting means SM to the control unit BC by a manual adjustment to the current I already when the latter value is smaller than the rated current. In any case, the charging current will not exceed either of the two maximum current values.

In 2 a device according to the invention LK is shown in the second implementation variant with a charging station connecting device LV in the form of a switch US for a country-specific configuration in three travel countries. This device also has a vehicle connection device FV in the form of a vehicle connector and a charging line LL and a control unit BC for controlling and monitoring the charger in the vehicle EF with an adjusting means SM for manual adjustment of the charging current.

Instead of the combination of AC plug WV and plug socket SA, as in 1 (a) In the present case, a changeover plug US is shown, which has standardized contact pins KS for connection to the charging station LS, which are manually configurable depending on the country-specific configuration of the contact sockets of the charging station LS (not shown), ie the arrangement of the contact pins KS and their Type can be selected and set country-specific depending on the requirement. For this purpose, laterally mounted push buttons ST are used. To adapt the switch US to the charging station LS therefore only a manual configuration of the switch US is required. Thus, a user makes a journey Countries with different connection configurations exclusively with the device according to the invention LK with a switch US and with it configures it as needed.

In order to achieve a detection of the country-specific configuration of the changeover plug US and thus the charging station LS, a mechanical changeover module UM is included in the changeover, on the one hand the manual rearrangement of the pins KS of the switch US and on the other a switching of one of several coding resistors CR in the changeover US effects ( 2 B) ). For this purpose, the mechanical switching module UM comprises a mechanically actuated switch SC, which switches through the suitable coding resistor CR with one of the resistance values R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ . If the number of country specifications is greater than three, additional resistances must be present. The number i ≥ 2 of the resistors R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ ,..., R _i is equal to the number of country specifications. For the sake of clarity, only three coding resistors are used in this description. By pressing the switch ST also the switch SC is operated. The resistance values R _1, R _2, R ₃ differ from all of each other, so that a manual configuration of the Umschaltsteckers US to a country-specific configuration of the loading station LS, to which the device LK is to be connected, clearly a resistance value R _1, R _2, R ₃ the switched-coding resistor CR is assigned. This also allows an assignment to the current-carrying capacity of the charging station LS.

As in the case of the first implementation variant according to 1 (c) the resistance value R ₁ , R ₂ , R _{3 of} the through-connected coding resistor CR is determined by measuring a voltage U _B at the point B in the control unit BC. As in the case of the first implementation variant, a means SP for detecting the resistance value R ₁ , R ₂ , R _{3 of} the coding resistor CR is accommodated in the control device BC. This means SP comprises a further resistor, the measuring resistor MR, which is acted upon by a DC voltage U _A , for example 12 V. The measuring resistor MR and the coding resistor CR also form a voltage divider, so that by measuring the voltage at the point B, the resistance value R ₁ , R ₂ , R _{3 of} the coding resistor CR can be determined according to the above formula.

In 3 is the charging station connecting device LV of the first implementation variant, consisting of the AC plug WV and the connector receptacle SA shown in detail. It can be seen that the connector receptacle SA can be inserted into the latter by means of the contact pins SK, which are designed to match corresponding sockets WB of the adapter plug WV, in order to produce a detachable electrical connection. In order to ensure when using this charging station connecting device LV outdoors that moisture and dirt and foreign matter does not penetrate into the gap between the connector receptacle SA and the AC plug WV, a seal DI is attached to the connector receptacle SA, the circumference of the plug receptacle body at the is attached to the AC plug WV facing front (see also 1 (b) ). This seal DI may be a rubber or silicone gasket. It can alternatively be attached to the AC plug WV. It is advantageous to provide the seal DI to the connector receptacle SA.

Furthermore, a locking means VM (lock system), consisting of two parts, is provided, one of which is mounted on the outside of the plug receptacle body and corresponding thereto one on the outside of the replaceable plug body. These two parts lock when plugging the adapter plug WV on the connector receptacle SA with each other, so that the two parts remain firmly connected to each other even at a tensile load and can form no gap between the billet body and the plug receptacle body. This measure also ensures safe operation of the device LK according to the invention outdoors.

In 4 different views of the charging station connecting device LV are shown in the second implementation variant in the form of a changeover plug US. The changeover plug US is shown in this figure in a first embodiment. The manual country-specific configuration of the contact pins KS is realized by means of Umschalttastern UT by these pressed into the housing GH of the Umstecksteckers US and locked in this position or are brought after unlocking, for example by means of a spring force back into the retracted position (see, for example 4 (d) in which the position of the three contact pins is shown). The switching buttons UT are not arranged laterally, but are perpendicular to the surface which is aligned parallel to the surface of the contact pins KS. The UT switch-over switches are protected against moisture, dirt and foreign bodies by sealing corrugated hoses WS. The corrugated hoses WS seal on the one hand on the respective head of the Umschalttaster UT and the other on the housing GH of the US plug from waterproof.

The front of the US plug is in 4 (b) shown. The respective country-specific configurations of the contact pins KS are represented by different contact pin fields KF, in which the contact pins KS are arranged differently are. In an example shown next to it, a single contact pin KS with a nonconducting tip NS is shown. This design of the tip of the contact pin KS serves to avoid contact with current-conducting contact pins KS, if they are not connected to the charging station LS and therefore are exposed. Although it is basically provided, the contact pins KS of the contact fields KF, which are not electrically connected to the charging station LS, not to apply voltage. The electrically non-conductive design of the contact tips KS still serves as additional Sicherheitsmaßnhme for the protection of persons.

Furthermore, it is off 4 (b) It can be seen that sealing elements DI, for example rubber seals, are located in the area of the contact pins KS, which ensure that moisture, dirt and foreign bodies can not reach the contact pins KS when the contact is plugged. Also, therefore, various measures provide a guarantee that the inventive device LK can also be used outdoors. In principle, all moving parts of the front should be circumferentially provided according to the invention with a seal DI.

In 5 a second embodiment of the switch plug US is shown. Unlike the in 4 In the first embodiment shown, the space that accommodates the switching buttons UT is in this case encapsulated with a cover AD, so that a more elegant plug shape is achieved. In this case, the manual actuation of the Umschalttaster UT is effected by means of lateral sliding switch ST, which reach through parallel to the direction of action of the Umschalttaster UT guide slots FS. In order to prevent or at least hinder the penetration of moisture, dirt and foreign bodies in this case, the guide slots are lined with a sealing material, for example with a rubber or silicone gasket.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 0622265 B1 [0003, 0020]
• EP 062226531 B1 [0005]
• EP 062226531 [0006]

Cited non-patent literature

• IEC 62196-2 [0004]
• DIN 40 050 [0005]
• DIN 40 050 [0005]
• IEC 62196-2 [0006]
• DIN 40 050 [0007]
• IEC 61851-1 [0018]
• IEC 61851 [0018]
• IEC 62196 [0018]
• DIN 40 050 [0030]

Claims (13)

Device (LK) for electrically charging an electric vehicle (EF) at a charging station (LS), comprising (a) a vehicle connection device (FV) for connecting the device (LK) to the electric vehicle (EF), (b) a charging station Connection device (LV) for connecting the device (LK) to the charging station (LS) and (c) a charging line (IL) between the vehicle connection device (FV) and the charging station connection device (LV) for transmitting a charging current from the charging station ( LS) to the electric vehicle (EF), characterized in that the device (LK) further comprises (d) at least one coding element (CR) connected in the charging station connecting device (LV), (e) means (SP) for detecting a coding value of the coding element (CR) and (f) has a coding line (CL) between the at least one coding element (CR) and the means (SP) for detecting the coding value. Device (LK) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one coding element (CR) is a Kodierwiderstand and that the Kodierwert the resistance value R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ , ..., R _{i of} the coding resistor. Device (LK) according to claim 2, characterized in that the Kodierwiderstand (CR) is an ohmic resistance and that the means (SP) for detecting the Kodierwertes R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ , ..., R _i against a Measuring DC voltage switched ohmic measuring resistor R has. Device (LK) according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that the charging station connecting device (LV) has a connector receptacle (SA) and with the connector receptacle (SA) detachably connectable removable connector (WV) in a country-specific configuration, wherein the Coding element (CR) in the AC connector (WV) with a country-specific configuration customizing coding R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ , ..., R _{i is} connected. Device (LK) according to claim 4, characterized in that the connector receptacle (SA) and the alternating connector (WV) are sealed in the inserted state against ingress of moisture and foreign matter. Device (LK) according to any one of claims 4 and 5, characterized in that the connector receptacle (SA) and the interchangeable connector (WV) mechanical locking means (VM), which hold them together in the inserted state. Device (LK) according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that the charging station connecting device (LV) has a country-specific configurable switching connector (US), in which, depending on the country-specific configuration, at least two coding elements (CR) each having a country-specific configuration individualisieren coding value R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ , ..., R _{i are} connected. Device (LK) according to claim 7, characterized in that the Umschaltsteckverbinder (US) a mechanical switching module (UM) for country-specific configuration of contact pins (KS) and for switching each _, an associated coding element (CR) with a customizing coding R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ , ..., R _i for each country-specific configuration of the contact pins (KS). Device (LK) according to claim 8, characterized in that the mechanical switching module (UM) protected against penetrating moisture and foreign body protected switchover switch (UT), with which the contact pins (KS) from the Umschaltsteckverbinder (UM) extendable and are retractable in this. Device (LK) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (LK) further comprises an electronic circuit for generating a control signal for driving an electronic circuit for controlling the charging current. Device (LK) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (LK) further comprises an integrated in the charging line (LL) electronic control unit (BC) for controlling and monitoring the charging process and that the means (SP) for detecting of the coding value R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ ,..., R _{i of} the coding element (CR) is located in the electronic control unit (BC). Device (LK) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (LK) further comprises adjusting means (SM) for manually setting a maximum charging current. Method for electrically charging an electric vehicle (EF) at a charging station (LS), comprising (a) connecting a charging line (LL) having a vehicle connecting device (FV) and a charging station connecting device (LV) via the vehicle connecting device (FV) with the electric vehicle (EF), (b) selecting a country-specific configuration of the charging station connecting device (LV) and (c) connecting the charging station connecting device (IV) in the selected country-specific configuration to the charging station (LS), characterized in that a maximum charging current is set by means of the following further method steps is: (d) determining the selected country specific configuration of the charging station connector (LV) by measuring a coding value R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ , ..., R _{i associated} with the country specific configuration of the charging station connector (LV) Charging station connecting device (LV) switched coding element (CR), (e) determining a current carrying capacity of the charging station (LS) by assigning the measured coding value R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ , ..., R _i to the current carrying capacity and (f) Setting the maximum charging current due to the calculated current carrying capacity of the charging station (LS).

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